Chicken Pillows with Creamy Parmesan Sauce for Cozy Nights Recipe
Deliciously flaky Chicken Pillows filled with a creamy, savory chicken and cream cheese mixture, baked to golden perfection and served with a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for cozy nights when you want a comforting, flavorful meal with a touch of indulgence.
- Author: Joe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Stovetop Sauce
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
For the Filling
- 2 cups Cooked and Shredded Chicken (rotisserie or leftover)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Dried Parsley (or fresh if available)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Melted Butter
- 1 pkg Crescent Roll Dough
- 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 large Egg (beaten, for egg wash)
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 1/4 cup All-purpose Flour
- 1 cup Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Parmigiano-Reggiano preferred)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Prepare Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and shredded chicken with cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, black pepper, and melted butter. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Shape Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and gently flatten each triangle using your hands to create an even surface for filling.
- Fill Pillows: Place a generous spoonful of the creamy chicken filling in the center of each dough triangle, making sure not to overfill to prevent leakage.
- Seal and Brush: Fold the dough edges over the filling to form a pocket. Pinch the seams tightly to seal. Brush the tops with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with panko breadcrumbs if desired for added crunch.
- Bake: Arrange the chicken pillows on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and flaky.
- Make Parmesan Sauce: While baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for about 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
- Finish Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Serve: Once the Chicken Pillows are baked to golden perfection, drizzle them with the warm creamy Parmesan sauce before serving. Enjoy your cozy, comforting meal!
Notes
- For a crispier top, you can add panko breadcrumbs before baking.
- If fresh parsley is available, use it instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Make sure cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven for best texture.
- This recipe pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Chicken Pillow with Sauce (approx. 1/8th of recipe)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Chicken Pillows, Creamy Parmesan Sauce, Crescent Roll Recipe, Comfort Food, Baked Chicken Appetizer